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OUR HISTORY

Standing Proud Since 1901

In 1901, a group of local people saw a need for a bank that understood the needs and values that were important to the citizens of Southeast Colorado. Out of a desire to help this community grow and prosper, First National Bank was founded in Las Animas, as the 4th bank in town.

From that small beginning, we now have six offices – in Las Animas, La Junta, Monument, Fowler, Ordway and Rocky Ford. And while the founders wouldn’t recognize many of our services – online banking, 24-hour voice banking, ATMs and debit cards – they would be perfectly at home with our values. We still put honesty, integrity and helping others above all. Through agricultural and business loans, mortgages and a broad range of other financial services, we work hard to meet the needs of the communities we’re a part of.

We employ the same fundamental banking practices we began with over a hundred years ago – financially sound decision making, a focus on meeting the needs of our customers and a commitment to supporting our communities.

1901: The Comptroller of the Currency issues Charter #6030 to the organizers of the First National Bank of Las Animas. It opens with capital of $50,000. Purpose: To serve the farmers, ranchers and small businesses of southeastern Colorado.

1930s: During the Great Depression, when other banks were failing, First National Bank of Las Animas remained conservative and strong, weathering the problems that resulted in so many bank closures.

1980-1990: Agricultural Crisis - high interest rates and a strained agricultural economy caused many banks to suffer along with their customers. First National Bank of Las Animas raised capital and strengthened the bank to survive and build a base for prosperity.

1982: First Bankshares of Las Animas was formed to acquire the bank which had $15 million in assets.

1990: First National Bank acquired the facility and deposits of Otero Savings.

1993: First National Bank’s second office opens in La Junta.

2002: The Monument office opens in March.

2006: First National Bank acquires its fourth office in Fowler.

2012: FNB purchases First National Bank of Ordway with offices in Ordway and Rocky Ford. Total assets reach $300 million.